The intent of this letter is to convey my support for passage of the OBH bond on Aug. 1.

As a 47-year resident of the peninsula, I have been part of, and witnessed, multiple OBH board, leadership, medical provider, and nursing staff evolutions. OBH has been a mainstay in this community for many years, with a legacy that is strong. But there was a time when its ability to have a stable provider base deteriorated and its reputation suffered. I feel strongly that negative reputation is no longer valid.

As a new nurse, I became an OBH staff member in 1976 and remained on staff for five years before moving on to pursue more nursing interests. In 2019, I retired but found I missed the ‘talk’ of my perioperative work. After 47-plus years of working in critical access hospitals, urban hospitals, consulting, and travel nursing, I was thrilled to be hired back to work at OBH. My reason was simple: I saw a difference. That difference manifested in leadership, providers and staff being committed to providing a local, stable, and high-quality destination to meet the medical needs of the community. The number of providers is growing; nursing and other support staff are stable and learned.

We are now asking the community to support the amazing care you receive at OBH, whether you are admitted or transferred to a higher level of intervention. To build on this trajectory, we need your vote for the financial assistance of this modest bond. The current building was brand new in 1976 when I was hired, and has been modified. However, as you can imagine, given the changes in need and technology, further updating is necessary. Facility improvement to meet regulations and provide space for care are primary to this bond.

Please support the OBH bond with your ‘YES’ vote Aug. 1. It will be money well spent to provide you with assessment, intervention and the care you deserve and need close to home.

LORIS COOK

Taxpayer, OBH Employee, Nurse

Ilwaco